Buying a New Year’s dress can be difficult because the perfect look has to balance sparkle, comfort, fit, and budget without missing the midnight mark. Holiday styles can disappear from racks faster than the ball drops, so waiting until the last minute may leave you feeling a little less than dazzling. Columbus shoppers also have to sort through everything from sequins to satin before finding a dress that truly makes an entrance. Prices can swing from bargain-ball territory to a full-blown fashion countdown. Fortunately, these Columbus-area stores offer plenty of places to dress for the occasion and start the year in style.

The prices below are estimated average costs for a New Year’s-ready dress, including cocktail, party, sequin, velvet, and formal styles. Actual prices vary by brand, sale, size, and inventory, so call ahead or check online before making your shopping trip—because nobody wants their budget to drop before the ball does.

## 1. Dillard’s — Peachtree Mall

Dillard’s is a strong choice for polished cocktail dresses, elegant eveningwear, velvet styles, and statement pieces that are ready to take center stage. **Estimated average price: $110.** Browse the [Dillard’s website](https://www.dillards.com/) before visiting Peachtree Mall and let your wardrobe make a grand entrance.

## 2. Belk — Peachtree Mall

Belk often carries a wide range of party dresses, from glittering mini dresses to sophisticated midi styles, making it easy to find something that suits your celebration. **Estimated average price: $75.** Check the [Belk website](https://www.belk.com/) for current selections and promotions so your look can sparkle without making your wallet see stars.

## 3. JCPenney — Peachtree Mall

JCPenney is a budget-friendly stop for party dresses, juniors’ styles, plus-size options, and classic silhouettes with festive details. **Estimated average price: $55.** Visit the [JCPenney website](https://www.jcpenney.com/) to browse dresses that can help you count down in style without counting every penny.

## 4. Target — Columbus

Target is a convenient choice for affordable party looks, especially if you want a simple black dress, metallic finish, or trendy seasonal style. **Estimated average price: $38.** Shop the [Target website](https://www.target.com/) for wallet-friendly options that prove your New Year’s outfit can hit the bullseye.

## 5. Kohl’s — Columbus

Kohl’s typically offers a mix of casual party dresses, dressy women’s styles, and recognizable brands, with frequent discounts that can make a festive look even more appealing. **Estimated average price: $52.** Browse [Kohl’s online](https://www.kohls.com/) and use the savings to keep your fashion forecast bright.

## 6. Burlington — Columbus

Burlington is worth exploring if you want a designer-inspired dress at a reduced price, since its inventory often includes sequins, satin, lace, and other celebration-ready details. **Estimated average price: $35.** Check the [Burlington website](https://www.burlington.com/) for store information, then let your bargain hunt shine bright.

## 7. Ross Dress for Less — Columbus

Ross can be a great place to search for inexpensive party dresses, although the selection changes frequently and may require some determined rack-roaming. **Estimated average price: $28.** Use the [Ross website](https://www.rossstores.com/) to locate a store and remember that the best finds may be a little off the rack—but right on time.

## 8. Marshalls — Columbus

Marshalls offers ever-changing selections of fashion brands, so shoppers may uncover everything from a sleek sheath to a glittery party dress at a pleasantly reduced price. **Estimated average price: $45.** Visit the [Marshalls website](https://www.marshalls.com/) for store details and prepare to make a stylish discovery that is truly a clearance event.

## 9. maurices — Peachtree Mall

maurices is a useful stop for trendy and inclusive sizing, with party dresses that can range from understated elegance to full-on New Year’s sparkle. **Estimated average price: $65.** Explore the [maurices website](https://www.maurices.com/) for current styles and find a fit that lets you start the year on the right hem.

## 10. Uptown Cheapskate — Columbus

For shoppers who enjoy resale fashion, Uptown Cheapskate can offer gently used or nearly new dresses at prices well below traditional retail. **Estimated average price: $32.** Visit the [Uptown Cheapskate website](https://uptowncheapskate.com/) to check store information and give a pre-loved dress a second chance to shine.

Whether you want designer drama, a bargain beauty, or a classic little black dress, Columbus has plenty of places to make your New Year’s wardrobe count. Shop early, try on several silhouettes, and check each store’s current inventory before heading out. With the right dress, you can toast to the new year looking absolutely sparkling—no wardrobe resolution required.